Making Your Home Special

When it comes to building the home of your dreams, there aren't many things more intimidating than the building process. However, about six months ago, I found myself going under contract with a builder to design and build the home of my dreams. It was really fun to pick everything from the color on the walls to the type of carpet throughout the house, and I was really impressed with how beautifully everything turned out. This blog is all about making your home special and understanding how to go about the building process. Check out this website for more information.

From LED Bulbs to Sensors: Lighting Upgrades That Can Save You Big Money on Your Energy Bills

Posted on:
18 November 2016

According to data collected by the Energy Information Administration, the average American household spends approximately $2000 a year on electricity bills. If you're like most families, chances are you've taken several steps to lower your monthly energy bills, including investing in energy-efficient appliances and unplugging electronics when they're not in use. However, before you begin spending money on expensive appliances, you should know there is a simpler way: investing in better lighting options. Here are a few ways that changing and upgrading the lighting in your home can save you big money on your electric bills.

Invest in LED Bulbs

One of the best ways to save big money on your energy bill is to invest in LED, or light-emitting diode, bulbs. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, which have a very short lifespan and can break very easily, LED bulbs can potentially keep your rooms and hallways lit for several years and are very sturdy.

In addition to lasting longer and costing less money to operate, LED bulbs also produce very little heat, which means they can be used in a number of places where traditional bulbs would cause damage.

LED bulbs are more expensive than traditional bulbs, so if you don't have money to switch all the bulbs in your house at once, begin in the most frequently used rooms in your home, such as your kitchen, living room, and bathroom.

Install Sensors, Dimmers and Timers

In addition to replacing all the bulbs in your home with energy-efficient LED bulbs, there are other, more technologically advanced ways you can save money. Here are three options that you can utilize throughout your home that can help you cut down on your energy consumption.

Sensors – Installing sensors throughout your home is not only a great way to save money; these handy devices are also a lifesaver when you need to get up in the night to use the bathroom! The sensors detect motion and automatically turn on when you walk past. This will allow you to illuminate any room or hallways when they are in use.

Dimmers – In addition to creating a relaxing atmosphere in any room in your home, light fixtures that are controlled by dimmers will actually utilize less electricity. This is because when you dim the bulb, it requires less electricity to remain illuminated.

Timers – Another great money-saving option, timers are a great way to keep your safe. Many homeowners choose to install timers on their outdoor lights exclusively. However, you should consider fitting timers on several fixtures in your home. This will add an additional layer of security, especially when you are away from home on vacation, because having the lights turn on periodically throughout the day will provide the illusion you are at home.

Invest in a Whole-Home System

Finally, if you truly want to control how much electricity is consumed at your home, including your light fixtures, the best option is to invest in a full home-automation system. Depending on the type of system you choose, you can do more than control the lights in your home. There are systems that allow you to alter the temperature on your thermostat, locks your doors, and even control your motorized blinds and shades.

Depending on your needs, you can choose a model that controls the lights, doors, and thermostat with a touchscreen remote control or even your smartphone. These systems can be complex to install, which is why you should leave the job to a professional electrician.

In addition to simply turning off the lights after you leave a room, there are several ways you can save money by upgrading your home's lighting. This includes switching to LED bulbs and installing dimmers or timers throughout your home.